eSelf Study Program 960143

The 2015 Audi A3

Running Gear and Suspension System
 Audi of America, LLC
Service Training
Created in the U.S.A.
Created 11/2013
Course Number 960143
©2013 Audi of America, LLC
All rights reserved. Information contained in this manual is based on
the latest information available at the time of printing and is subject to
the copyright and other intellectual property rights of Audi of America,
LLC., its affiliated companies and its licensors. All rights are reserved
to make changes at any time without notice. No part of this document
may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording
or otherwise, nor may these materials be modified or reposted to other
sites without the prior expressed written permission of the publisher.
All requests for permission to copy and redistribute information should
be referred to Audi of America, LLC.
Always check Technical Bulletins and the latest electronic service repair
literature for information that may supersede any information included
in this booklet.

Revision 2: 12/2013

3
 Contents

Suspension system - overall concept...................................................6

Suspension..........................................................................................7
Overview ..................................................................................................................................................................... 7

Axles and suspension alignment.........................................................8

Front suspension ....................................................................................................................................................... 8
Four-link rear suspension ......................................................................................................................................... 9
Suspension alignment and set-up ..........................................................................................................................10

Brake system.................................................................................... 12
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................12
Design and function .................................................................................................................................................16
Service operations ....................................................................................................................................................17
ESP overview .............................................................................................................................................................18
System components .................................................................................................................................................18
Service operations ....................................................................................................................................................20

Steering system................................................................................ 21
Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................21
Electro-mechanical steering ....................................................................................................................................21

Audi magnetic ride........................................................................... 24

Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................24
Service operations ....................................................................................................................................................27

Adaptive cruise control (ACC)........................................................... 28

Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................28
Design and function .................................................................................................................................................28
Operation and driver information ...........................................................................................................................28
Service and diagnostic operations ..........................................................................................................................28

Wheels and tires............................................................................... 29

Overview ....................................................................................................................................................................29
Tire Pressure Monitoring System ............................................................................................................................30

eSelf Study Program......................................................................... 31

Knowledge Assessment................................................................... 32

4
This eSelf Study Program teaches a basic knowledge of the design and functions of new models, Note
new automotive components or technologies.
It is not a Repair Manual! All values given are intended as a guideline only.
For maintenance and repair work, always refer to the current technical literature.
Reference
Suspension system - overall concept
A major developmental goal for the suspension system of A reduced weight electro-mechanical power steering
the Audi A3 was to achieve a high level of agility, sporty system with speed dependent assistance (Servotronic) is
handling and high driving comfort without making any standard equipment on the A3.
compromises to driving dynamics.
A variable steering ratio is achieved through the special
Even it its basic configuration, the 2015 A3 affords a brand- geometry of the rack and pinion system. A range of newly
typical driving experience and comfort with a strong developed steering wheels extends from the conventional
emphasis on sporty attributes. The A3 offers a high level of four-spoke wheel to the three-spoke multi-function sport
driving enjoyment. steering wheel with leather trim and shift paddles.

This has been accomplished by using the proven concept of The 15 and 16 inch service brakes (engine dependent) are
the MacPherson front suspension in combination with larger than those of the predecessor model and provide
newly developed torsion beam and four link rear suspen- excellent braking capability relative to engine power
sions. The torsion beam version of the rear suspension is output. A newly developed Continental Mk100 ESP system
33 lb (15 kg) lighter than an equivalent multi-link rear is being used for the first time by Audi.
suspension in addition to having aerodynamic advantages.
The use of the torsion beam rear suspension or the four-
link suspension is dependent on engine horsepower output.

The A3 will also be available with all wheel drive in combi-

nation with the four-link rear suspension. An electronic
damping control system based on the established Audi
magnetic ride system will also be available as an option.

612_001a

6
Suspension
Overview
The following suspension system versions will be offered
for the 2015 A3 sedan:

Dynamic suspension

The dynamic suspension system is standard in the 2015

Audi A3.

612_002a

Sports suspension

The sports suspension is optional. In models with sports

suspension, ride height is 0.59 in (15 mm) lower than in
models with the standard suspension. The S3 model will
have its own version of the sport suspension featuring
more sporty characteristics. 612_002b

Suspension system with electronic

damping control

This suspension system is currently available only on S3

models. It is based on the Audi magnetic ride system
currently used in other Audi models.
612_002c

Components of the 2015 Audi A3 suspension systems are The production control numbers (PR numbers) are
also used by other Group brands. The production control explained in the repair manual (ElsaWeb or ElsaPro). Under
numbers denoting the suspension type therefore deviate Repair Group 44 "Wheels, tires and suspension alignment".
from those of suspension systems used exclusively by Audi.

7
 Axles and suspension alignment
Front suspension
A newly developed MacPherson strut front suspension is Steering forces are transmitted directly to the swivel bear-
used on the 2015 A3. The kinematics give the vehicle sporty ings to provide immediate steering response.
and dynamic qualities; agile handling, roll comfort, reduced
vibration, low roll angle and good dynamic stability.

Spring Shock absorber Anti-roll bar Swivel bearing

−− Steel spring with linear −− Twin-tube shock absorber with −− Tubular anti-roll bars −− Two versions are available
characteristic additional polyurethane spring depending on engine output
−− 15“ wheels, steel swivel bearing
−− 16/17“ wheels, aluminium swivel
bearing

612_003

Joint Engine/transmission mount Wishbone Wheel bearing / wheel hub

−− Ball joint for con- −− Aluminium casting −− One-piece stamped −− Third generation wheel
necting the wish- steel design bearing with integrated wheel
bone and swivel hub
bearing

8
Rear suspension
Torsion beam suspension

A newly developed torsion beam suspension system is used The axle locating bearings are highly rigid in the vehicle’s
for front wheel drive models with the 2.0L TDI engine. This transverse direction to ensure a rapid build-up of lateral
axle is used to accommodate the AdBlue tank necessary for traction.
the Diesel fuel system. Torsion is produced by a downward-
facing U profile. Due to the axle design, there is no need for Because the shock absorbers are in approximately the same
an anti-roll bar. position as in the multi-link rear suspension versions, only
minor bodyshell modifications were required.

Shock absorber Steel springs Wheel bearings

−− Twin-tube shock absorber −− Steel spring with −− Third generation wheel bearing
with additional polyurethane linear characteristic with integrated wheel hub
spring −− Bolted to the axle

612_004

Bearing pedestal Torsion beam suspension Bearing

−− Stamped steel part −− Made of welded steel −− Rubber-metal bearing
−− Supports the rear axle at components
the bearing and is bolted
to the vehicle body

9
 Four-link rear suspension
A four-link suspension for quattro and front wheel drive is Spring travel has been increased in order to enhance
used on vehicles with engine outputs of 114 hp (85 kW) comfort. The repositioning of the upper damper bearings
and higher. This suspension will be standard equipment for has allowed the fuel tank filler design to be optimized. The
gasoline powered vehicles in the North American region. weight of the axle has been significantly reduced by
The basis for the new development is the proven rear sus- approximately 10 lb (4.5 kg) when compared to the prede-
pension from the predecessor model. The shock absorbers cessor model.
are now coupled to the spring link instead of to the wheel
carrier. The anti-roll bars are also connected to the spring
link.

Shock absorber Steel springs Anti-roll bar Tie rod Wheel bearing / wheel hub
−− Twin-tube shock absorber −− Steel springs with −− Tubular anti-roll −− Plastic component −− Third generation wheel bearing
with additional polyure- linear characteristic bars with integrated wheel hub
thane spring −− Adopted from predecessor
model for front wheel drive
−− New part for quattro drive

Spring link Upper track control arm

−− Made of high- −− Made of steel
tensile steel

612_005

Trailing arm Wheel carrier Rear sub-frame Bearing pedestal Bearing Track link
−− Stamped steel −− Steel casting for −− Made of steel −− Stamped steel −− Rubber metal bearing −− Made of steel
part front wheel drive part
−− Aluminium casting for
quattro drive

10
Suspension alignment and set-up
The left and right toe-in angles on the front axle can be Individual toe and camber angles can be adjusted on the
adjusted separately by changing the length of the track four-link rear suspension. There are no adjustments on the
rods. The camber can be balanced (centered) within narrow torsion beam rear suspension.
limits by moving the sub-frame transversely.

Toe adjustment at the spring link/sub-

frame attachment point (not shown).

Toe adjustment Camber adjustment

612_006

11
Brake system
Overview
The brake system of the 2015 A3 is a logical progression of The electro-mechanical parking brake (EPB) is now used on
its predecessor. It is the first Audi to be equipped with the the 2015 A3. The brake servo and pedal assembly are
Continental ESP MK100 brake system. At the start of newly designed.
production, 15 inch and 16 inch systems will be used
depending on engine output. Around mid-year, 2014 the
Audi S3 will come standard with 17 inch brakes. Pistons
with larger diameters than those of the predecessor model
are used on all models.

ESP MK 100 by Continental

612_001a

15”, 16” or 17” Tandem master brake cylinder 15" or 17” rear wheel brakes with
brakes with single 10“ or 11“ brake servo electro-mechanical parking brake
(EPB)

12
Front wheel brakes
Engine type R4 2.0 TDI 150 hp (111 kW) R4 1.8 TFSI 170 hp (125 kW) R4 2.0 TFSI 285 hp (206 kW)
R4 2.0 TFSI 220 hp (162 kW)
Minimum wheel size 15“ 16“ 17“

Brake type PC57-25/14 15“ PC57-25/14 16“ C60-30/13 17“

TRW TRW TRW
Number of pistons 1 1 1

Piston diameter 2.24 in (57 mm) 2.24 in (57 mm) 2.36 in (60 mm)

Brake disc diameter 11.33 in (288 mm) 12.28 in (312 mm) 13.38 in (340 mm)

612_027

13
Rear wheel brakes
Engine type R4 1.8 TFSI 170 hp (125 kW) R4 2.0 TFSI 220 hp (162 kW)
R4 2.0 TDI 150 hp (112 kW) R4 2.0 TFSI 285 hp (210kW)
Minimum wheel size 15“ 17“

Brake type FNc-M38-1510 TMD FNc-M42-1722 TMD

Continental Continental
Number of pistons 1 1

Piston diameter 1.49 in (38 mm) 1.65 in (42 mm)

Brake disc diameter 10.70 in (272 mm) 12.20 in (310 mm)

612_028

14
Brake servo, master brake cylinder,
pedal assembly

10” or 11” single diaphragm brake servos are used on all

left hand drive A3 models. The size is dependent on engine
type. The brake servo is newly developed and is consider-
ably lighter than the predecessor. The weight reduction was
achieved by using high tensile steel for the outer shells and
revised contours.

Brake pressure build-up is based on a single rate characteristic.

612_029

The pedal assembly of the 2015 A3 is a new design.

The brake and accelerator pedals are suspended from a
common plastic bearing pedestal. This was done to
reduce weight.

Plastic bearing pedestal

612_030

Electro-mechanical parking brake

(EPB)

An electro-mechanical parking brake system is used on the

A3 model line for the first time. The system and software
is supplied by Continental.

612_031

15
Design and function
Left and Right Parking Brake Motors V282 and V283 are The brake and release operations are controlled in the
different from the TRW components used in previous Audi same way as in the EPB systems used in other Audi models.
models. Gear reduction is provided by a two-step worm Deactivation of the maximum clamping force of approxi-
drive assembly. The required self-locking effect is produced mately 17.5 kN is controlled by applying up to approxi-
in the second step. mately 12A of electrical current. A temperature model in
the ABS/ESP Control Module calculates the cooling of the
The brake caliper spindle is inserted into the spur gear of brake discs and pads when the vehicle is parked and, if
the second gear step when assembling the parking brake necessary, tightens the parking brake up to three times by
motor. The spindle and spur gear are connected by internal briefly activating the electric motors.
and external Torx® profiles. The spindle is a component
Brake caliper spindle
part of the ball screw and is mounted in the brake caliper. engagement
It applies pressure to the inner face of the brake piston via
the spindle nut.

The spur gear, driven by the electric motor, transmits the

Worm gear
rotational movement to the spindle. The thrust element assembly of
moves lengthwise when the spindle rotates. Depending on second gear step

the direction of rotation, the thrust element moves Worm gear

towards the base of the brake piston or in the opposite assembly of first
gear step
direction. As a result, the brake piston is pressed against
the brake pad (braking position) or moved away by the
brake pad (release position).
Electric motor

612_032

Brake piston

Brake disc Thrust piece Ball screw Spur gear of second Spindle
Brake piston in (spindle nut) gear step
release position

612_033
Brake pad

Brake piston in
applied position

612_034

16
Service operations
The thickness of the outer brake pads on all wheels can also A brake pad wear indicator is installed on the right wheel
be checked using measuring pin T40139A. brake of the front axle on the 2015 A3. The contact is
attached to the inner brake pad.

612_035

Brake pad Measuring pin

The control software for the EPB is integrated in the

ABS/ESP Control Module. The service functions of the EPB
are accessed through Address Word 03. The Address Word
normally used for EPB (053) is unassigned.

To replace the rear brake pads, you must initiate the cor-
responding Test Plan using the VAS Scan Tool. The parking
brake is then opened as far as possible so that the brake
pads can be replaced. After replacing the brake pads, the
parking brake is closed and the required clearance between
the brake pad and brake disc is set automatically.

When installing the new brake pads, care must be taken to

ensure that the locking pins on the back plates engage the 612_031
brake piston pockets.

!
Warning
Due to the modified design of the EPB parking brake motors, the self-locking effect is no longer provided by the spindle in
the brake caliper, but rather by the second gear step in the parking brake motor. As a consequence, the parking brake is
released as soon as the parking brake motor is detached from the brake caliper. To prevent the vehicle from rolling away
during service, it is important that the vehicle is be secured before disassembling the parking brake motors. The parking
brake motors should only be removed on a level surface with the remaining wheels blocked or on a vehicle lift.

17
ESP overview
The Continental ESP MK 100 system is used in the Audi A3.
This ESP system is a more advanced version of the ESP MK
60 system used in the predecessor model, both in terms of
its hardware and software. The ESP unit is mounted on the
right side long member in the engine compartment.

ABS/ESP Control
System components Module J104 Hydraulic unit

ABS/ESP Control Module J104

Rotation Rate Sensor G202, Transverse Acceleration Sensor

G200 and Longitudinal Acceleration Sensor G251 have
been integrated with ABS/ESP Control Module J104. This
eliminates the use of ESP Sensor Unit G419 found in the
predecessor model.

The control software for the EPB has been integrated in

ABS/ESP Control Module J104. The control module
performance has been enhanced by using new electronic
components and more advanced software. The ABS/ESP
communicates via the Suspension CAN bus.

Hydraulic unit

Two versions of the hydraulic unit are used dependent on 612_037

the installation of Adaptive cruise control (ACC). Continental ESP MK 100
A hydraulic unit with special noise reduction features and
a reinforced pump are used on vehicles with ACC.

18
ABS Wheel Speed Sensors G44 - G47

Active wheel speed sensors are used on the 2015 Audi A3.
There are two configurations for the sensors at the rear
axle. If the vehicle is equipped with Audi park assist and/or
ACC, the sensors will additionally record the direction of
rotation of the wheels and the clearance between the
sensor wheel and sensor.

612_038

System functions

The 2015 A3 has the same ESP system functions as its Another new feature is the post collision brake assist
predecessor model. function.

An additional new feature is the active brake pressure This function reduces the danger of skidding and further
build-up for the ACC function and Audi pre-sense front collisions during an accident by automatically initiating a
brake operations. vehicle braking operation. The function is active during
head-on, side and rear collisions if a predetermined
If the system identifies a situation of impending vehicle deployment threshold is exceeded. If the threshold is
instability based on the relevant signals, the brake system exceeded, the Airbag Control Module instructs the
is pre-filled. A moderate build-up of brake pressure is ABS/ESP Control Module to brake the vehicle via a bus
initiated by the activation of the ESP pump. The purpose is message. The ABS/ESP system then builds up brake
to eliminate the brake pad / disc clearance which reduces pressure at all four wheels.
the reaction time during subsequent braking manoeuvres.
There are several conditions for activation. First, the
The brakes are also pre-filled if an emergency braking vehicle must be travelling at a speed greater than 6.2 mph
operation is initiated by the driver. During an emergency (10 kph). Further, the ESP system, hydraulic brake system,
braking maneouver, drivers usually take their foot of the and the on-board power supply must all remain intact
accelerator pedal very quickly and apply full braking. The during the collision.
movement of the accelerator pedal is evaluated in these
situations. Automatic braking is deactivated during the following
driver actions:
The Hill Start Assist function is optional with the A3 for the
first time in this model series. • The driver depresses the accelerator pedal.
• The driver brakes by applying a brake pressure higher than the
brake pressure applied by the system.

If an ESP system fault has occurred, the post collision brake

assist function will not be available.

Reference
The actions implemented by the ABS/ESP Control Module for Audi pre-sense and pre-sense front are described in eSelf-Study
Program 990143, The 2015 Audi A3 Introduction.

Operation and driver information

If the ESP button on the instrument panel is pressed for

less than three seconds, Sport mode is activated. The TCS
function is simultaneously deactivated. Stabilizing ESP
inputs are not made until much higher wheel slip values.
612_014
If the ESP button is pressed for longer than three seconds,
TCS and ESP are both deactivated.

19
Service operations
The ABS Control Module and hydraulic unit can be sepa- Since the control software for the electro-mechanical
rated for repair. The same condition applies here as to the parking brake is a function of ABS/ESP Control Module
predecessor model: control modules can be replaced indi- J104, a function check is performed on the EPB by twice
vidually but the entire ABS/ESP unit must be replaced if opening and closing the parking brake. The ESP intake and
hydraulic units are faulty. isolating valves are subsequently calibrated, as previously
in the predecessor model equipped with MK 60 EC.
After replacing an ABS/ESP Control Module, it must be
encoded online. Steering Angle Sensor G85 must be The TPMS is also enabled at this time. The concluding
calibrated and initialized through Power Steering actuator diagnostics ensure that the hydraulic lines are
Control Module J500. correctly connected to the hydraulic unit and the ESP
system is tested for proper function.
Several basic settings must then be configured. At the
same time, the brake pressure, longitudinal acceleration,
transverse acceleration and yaw rate senders are calibrated.

Special tool Wrist band

VAS 6613
ESD table mat
with equipotential
bonding

612_040

!
Note
To avoid damaging electronic components by electrostatic discharge, the control module and hydraulic unit
must always be removed/assembled using Special tool VAS 6613.

20
Steering system

Overview
The steering system concept for the 2015 A3 has been A progressive steering system will be offered as an option
adopted from the predecessor model. This includes the in combination with the sports suspension at a later date.
electro-mechanical steering system and, a mechanically
adjustable steering column.

Various steering wheels are used based on

vehicle options

Mechanically adjustable safety steering

column with stepless adjustment
2.3 in (60 mm) longitudinally
1.9 in (50 mm) vertically

Electro-mechanical steering with

Servotronic function is standard equipment

612_017

Electro-mechanical steering

Design and function

The functional principle of the steering system has been The position of the electric motor's rotor is identified by a
adopted unchanged from the predecessor model. Torque rotor speed sender built into the motor. This sender has
assistance is provided by a second steering pinion which is the same functional principle as the sender used in the
driven by an electric motor. A torque sensor determines predecessor model. A temperature sensor integrated in
the steering torque applied by the driver. The electronic the control module measures the output stage
control module determines the required torque assistance temperature. If a predetermined limit is exceeded, power
in dependence on steering torque, vehicle speed, steering steering assistance is incrementally reduced. If a system
angle, steering speed and other input variables. A major fault is detected, power steering assistance is deactivated.
modification compared to the predecessor model is the System faults are indicated to the driver visually by a
use of a synchronous motor in place of an asynchronous yellow or red indicator lamp and audibly by acoustic
motor. By making this modification and by redesigning signals.
the geometry of the steering housing, the overall weight
of the steering unit has been reduced by approximately
5.5 lb (2.5 kg).

Reference
For detailed information on the design and function of the electro-mechanical steering system, refer to eSelf-Study Program
993503, The 2006 Audi A3 Running Gear.
21
 EPS pinion Steering Motor Speed Sensor Steering angle sensor G85
G577 Steering torque sensor G269

612_018
Synchronous Power Steering Steering pinion
Electro-mechanical Power Control Module
Steering Motor V187 J500

Progressive steering
(not available at model introduction)

Progressive steering is provided by a variable steering ratio.

A special rack gearing geometry is used to ensure that the
steering ratio is variable as a function of steering angle. A
progressive steering system will be offered as an option in
combination with the sports suspension at a later date. 612_019

Rack Steering pinion

The steering ratio is at its highest when driving in a straight

line and during minor steering inputs near the center
position. The immediate vehicle response to steering inputs
conveys a sporty and direct steering feel to the driver.
Steering ratio

At medium steering angles (for example, when driving on

winding country roads), the ratio is still large enough to
create a dynamic steering feel and reduce the need for
drivers to move their hands on the steering wheel.
Steering angle
At large steering angles (for example, in inner-city areas or
612_020
when parking), the steering ratio is reduced to minimize
steering effort for the driver.

22
Service/diagnostic operations

The electro-mechanical steering system components

described here have self-diagnostic capability.

1. Special system status indication

Yellow warning lamp active:

The yellow warning lamp is activated in the following cases:

• The end stops have not been programmed or Steering

Angle Sensor G85 is not calibrated. In this case, the fault
is registered and power steering assistance is reduced to
approximately 60%. Calibrating the steering angle
sensor deactivates the warning lamp again and automati-
cally clears the DTC from the fault memory. 612_023

• A system malfunction has occurred: in these cases, an

additional text message appears in the DIS and the fault
is registered. The vehicle can be driven to the nearest
repair center, but with reduced steering assistance.

Red warning lamp active:

The red warning lamp is activated in the following cases:

• A system test is run internally directly after switching

the ignition ON, during which the warning lamp is briefly
activated for test purposes. If the system is fault-free, 612_024
the warning lamp goes out again after a few seconds. In
vehicles with the optional advanced key, the yellow
warning lamp for testing the electrical steering lock
system is briefly activated before the red warning lamp.

• If the warning lamp is continuously lit, it means that a

system fault has been detected. In these cases, an addi-
tional text message appears in the DIS and the fault is
registered. It is no longer possible to continue driving.

2. Removing, installing and

replacing system components and
follow-up work

There is no provision for the replacement of individual

components. In the event of a fault, the complete steering
unit must always be replaced.

After installation, Steering Angle Sensor G85 must be

calibrated before Power Steering Control Module J500 is
encoded. The steering end stops are also stored during
this calibration procedure.

The power steering map required for the vehicle is activated 612_025
after the calibration is made. The characteristic maps are
selected depending on front axle load and vehicle weight.
Power steering
Control Module
J500

23
Audi magnetic ride
Overview Design and function

A newly developed Audi magnetic ride system will be The system has the same functional principle as the
optionally available on the 2015 Audi S3 at a later date. systems currently being used in the, TT and R8 models.

The system is operated using Audi drive select. Three differ- The system components and the key new design and
ent suspension set-ups ranging from sporty to comfortable functional features are described below.
can be selected.

Driving Profile Damping Adjustment Damping Adjustment Valves,

Selection Switch Indicator Lamp K189 left front N336
Module E592 right front N337

612_007a

Vehicle level sender, rear Damping Adjustment Electronic Damping Level Control Sensors,
right G77 Valves, Control Module J250 right front G289
rear left G76 left rear N338 left front G78
right rear N339

24
Damping Adjustment Valves
N336-339

As with the systems used on current Audi models, single-

tube shock absorbers are also used on the 2015 Audi S3.
The shock absorbers essentially differ from those of the
predecessor model in respect to the new features on the
Optimized
2015 Audi A3 below.
seals

The damper pistons have two separate magnetic coils.

These allow the same magnetic flow to be achieved using
smaller iron cross-sections, thereby reducing eddy current
losses. This improves the magnetic properties of the coils
and thus allows damping forces to be built up more quickly.
The result is enhanced comfort. Damper pistons with
twin magnetic coils
Single-conductor technology was used in the shock absorb-
ers on the predecessor model. Electric current was fed to
the magnetic coil in the piston through a wire, while the
piston and piston rod acted as the ground circuit. Twin-
conductor technology is used on the 2015 S3. With this
system, the ground circuit is a separate wire. This elimi-
nates the need for extensive electrical insulation and sim-
plifies system diagnostics. Two separate lines for
electrical current supply
and return
The damper seal has also been redesigned. The result is
better low temperature stability and resistance to ingress
612_008
of dirt from the exterior.

The diameter of the rear axle shock absorbers has been

reduced from 1.8 in (46 mm) to 1.4 in (36 mm) when
compared to the predecessor model which provides a
weight saving benefit.

Electronic Damping Control

Module J250

Electronic Damping Control Module J250 has also been

upgraded. A new processor provides increased speed while
the internal memory has been substantially expanded. A
new security concept has been adapted to enhance system
diagnostics.

The frequency of the pulse width modulated signal used to

activate the shock absorbers has been increased to 31 kHz.
This reduces the variation in magnetic forces and damping
forces and thereby improves acoustics. The damper is not 612_009

activated when the vehicle is stationary (speed signal = 0).

Faster force reduction and more precise and comfortable

control are achieved by a new switching concept for the
deactivation path. In addition, various new requirements
were met, such as a reduction in static current consumption.

The control module is installed under the right front seat.

25
Level Control System Sensors
G76-78, G289

Four vehicle level senders are also used in the Audi S3. They
have the same function as the senders of the current A4.
They were adapted to the installation space available in the
S3 by making geometric modifications.

612_010

Operation and driver information

System settings are made through Audi drive select by

pressing the corresponding button in the toolbar. The first
push of the button displays the mode currently set in the
Driver Information System. This display remains active for
six seconds. If the button is pressed again during this time,
the next mode is selected in the following order:

• comfort - auto - dynamic - individual

612_011
In vehicles with NAV, settings can optionally be made in the
CAR menu using the turn-push button of the MMI system.
In vehicles with the multifunction steering wheel, the
programmable button can used as an operating element
for Audi drive select.

612_012a 612_013

26
Service operations
Audi magnetic ride has self-diagnostic capability. If system
faults are detected, the warning lamp in the instrument
cluster and the text output in the Driver Information
System are activated. The damping control system is modi-
fied accordingly or deactivated completely depending on
the severity of the fault. ESP is activated automatically
when required.

The control module be accessed after moving the front

right seat back as far as it will go. It is located under a cover
on the carpet.

The control module is encoded only when writing the

vehicle data record. After encoding has been completed,
the “Program default suspension height” can be performed
using the VAS Scan Tool.

The “Program default suspension height” Test Plan must

always be performed after reinstalling/replacing:

• Electronic Damping Control Module J250

• a shock absorber (or multiple shock absorbers)
• a vehicle level sensor
612_015

27
Adaptive cruise control (ACC)
Overview Driver Assistance Systems
Camera R242

ACC is available as an option for the first time in the A3

model line. The customer can choose between two options:

• The stand-alone ACC option operates over a speed range of

0 mph - 94 mph ( 0 km/h - 150 km/h) on vehicles equipped
with an automatic transmission. (Note: the 2015 A3 in
North America will only be available with an automatic
transmission at the time of launch)

• If the vehicle has the optional “driver assistance

package” which includes ACC, the system operates with
an extended speed range of 0 mph - 125 mph (0 km/h
- 200 km/h) for vehicles with an automatic transmission.
This optional package also includes Driver Assistance
Systems Camera R242.

There is no difference between the systems in terms of

their design and function. Adaptive Cruise Control Sensor G259 and
Distance Regulation Control Module J428 612_041

Design and function

Radar sensors with four transmitter and receiver units are
used on 2015 A3. The ACC system generally functions the
same as systems currently in use on other Audi models.

The A3 has the ACC stop and go function if the vehicle is

equipped with an automatic transmission.

The pre-warning and braking intervention functions used in

current Audi models under the designation “braking guard”
are now included in Audi pre-sense.

A new safety function for the A3 model automatically

brakes the vehicle in the event of an impending collision at
speeds below 19 mph (30 km/h). This function (post
collision brake assist) is also included in Audi pre-sense.
The measurement data obtained by the ACC system pro-
vides the basis for identification of collision hazards. The
ACC Control Module determines if a collision hazard exists 612_042

or not.

Operation and driver information

The control options and elements are the same as for the
systems currently being used in other Audi models. As before,
the main operating functions can be executed using the ACC
stalk.

The pre-warning function, now implemented in Audi pre-sense,

or the overall Audi pre sense function can be deactivated in
models equipped with MMI.

Service and diagnostic operations 612_043

The service and diagnostic operations are also identical to

those of the system in the current Audi A4.
28
Wheels and tires
Overview

A. B. C. D.

E. F.
E.

A3 S3
Wheels & Tires Code Package 1.8T 2.0T 2.0TDI

A. 7.5J x 17 5-spoke-Star-design C0X

——   —— ——
225/45 R17 all-season tires H7K

B. 7.5J x 17 10-spoke Dynamic-design C5I

—— —— ——  ——
225/45 R17 all-season tires H7K
CL7
C. 8.0J x 18 10-spoke-Design, Audi exclusive
225/40 R18 all-season tires HX9 —— o o o ——
225/40 R18 summer performance tires
HJ4
D. 8.0J x 19 5-arm-Wing-design, Anthracite C7D
polished 235/35 R19 summer —— o o —— ——
performance tires H13

C0J
E. 8.0J x 18 5-arm double spoke S3 design
225/40 R18 summer performance tires HJ4 —— —— —— —— 
225/40 R18 all-season tires
HX9

F. 8.0J x 19 5-parallel spoke Cast Aluminum design C6H

225/35 R19 summer performance tires
—— —— —— —— o
H13

= Standard
= Optional
= Not Available

1 Tires are supplied and warranted by their manufacturer. High-performance tires are designed for optimum performance and handling in warm
climates. They are not suitable for cold, snowy, or icy weather conditions. If you drive under those circumstances, you should equip your vehicle
with all-season or winter tires, which offer better traction under those conditions. We suggest you use the recommended winter or all-season
tire specified for your car or its equivalent. These high-performance tires also have a lower aspect ratio that aids performance and handling;
however, in order to avoid tire, rim or vehicle damage, it is important that the inflation pressure is regularly checked and maintained at optimum
levels. Please also remember in making your selection that, while these tires deliver responsive handling, they may ride less comfortably and
make more noise than other choices. Finally, these tires may wear more quickly than other choices.

29
Tire Pressure Monitoring System
The 2015 Audi A3 uses the second generation tire pressure
monitoring system. It functions based on information
from the ABS/ESP Control Module. It is identical to the
system currently in use on other Audi models in terms of
design, operation, driver information provided, service
operations and diagnostics.

A3 S3

625_148

30
eSelf Study Program
For further information about the technology in the 2015 Audi A3, refer to the following eSelf Study Programs.

eSelf Study Program 990143 eSelf Study Program 970343

eSelf Study Program 970243

The 2015 Audi A3 Introduction The 2015 Audi A3 Vehicle Electronics

The 2015 Audi A3 Onboard Power Supply and Driver Assistance Systems
and Networking Systems

• The Self Study Programme teaches a basic knowledge of the design and functions of new models, new Note
automotive components or new technologies.
It is not a Repair Manual! Figures are given for explanatory purposes only and refer to the data valid at the
time of preparation of the SSP.
For further information about maintenance and repair work, always refer to the current technical literature.

2
2

990143 970243 970343

The 2015 Audi A3 The 2015 Audi A3 The 2015 Audi A3 Vehicle
Introduction Onboard Power Supply Electronics and Driver
and Networking Systems Assistance Systems

31
Knowledge Assessment
An On-Line Knowledge Assessment (exam) is Available for this eSelf-Study Program.

The Knowledge Assessment is required for Certification.

You can find this Knowledge Assessment at:

www.accessaudi.com

From the accessaudi.com Homepage:

• Click on the “ACADEMY” tab

• Click on the “Academy site” link
• Click on the Course Catalog Search and select “960143 - The 2015 Audi A3 Running Gear and Suspension System”

Please submit any questions or inquiries via the Academy CRC Online Support Form
which is located under the “Support” tab or the “Contact Us” tab of the Academy CRC.

Thank you for reading this eSelf-Study Program and taking the assessment.

32
 960143

All rights reserved.

Technical specifications are
subject to change without notice.

Audi of America, LLC

2200 Ferdinand Porsche Drive
Herndon, VA 20171
33